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The Manikato Stakes 2024: A Night of Sprinting Greatness at Moonee Valley

The Manikato Stakes, held annually at Moonee Valley Racecourse, stands as one of Australia’s premier Group 1 sprinting events. Traditionally run under the lights on the Friday night before the Cox Plate, the race has cemented itself as a cornerstone of the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival.

With a rich history, a who’s who of past champions, and a distinctive atmosphere created by the twilight setting, the Manikato Stakes offers racing fans a thrilling spectacle of speed, skill, and prestige.

History and Legacy

First run in 1968, the race was initially known as the Freeway Stakes. It was not until 1984 that it was renamed the Manikato Stakes in honor of one of Australia’s most celebrated racehorses, Manikato.

A five-time winner of the William Reid Stakes at Moonee Valley, Manikato was a dominant force on the Australian racing scene from the late 1970s into the early 1980s, with his name now immortalized through this prestigious event.

As a weight-for-age sprint over 1200 meters, the Manikato Stakes has consistently attracted the fastest sprinters in the country. Its position on the racing calendar, just a day before the illustrious Cox Plate, adds to the excitement.

The Manikato Stakes is often viewed as a defining test for sprinters, with many horses using the race as a stepping stone toward other major Group 1 events later in the spring.

The Moonee Valley Night Racing Atmosphere:

One of the unique aspects of the Manikato Stakes is its setting under the lights of Moonee Valley. Night racing at this venue provides a distinct experience for racegoers, combining the fast-paced excitement of elite sprinting with the drama of a twilight backdrop.

With the city skyline illuminated in the distance and an electric atmosphere surrounding the racecourse, the Friday night event has become one of the most anticipated race meetings on the calendar.

The racecourse itself is tight and tactical, with a shorter straight than many other Australian tracks. Moonee Valley’s 173-metre straight requires jockeys to time their runs perfectly, making positioning in the final bend crucial. The race often produces thrilling finishes, as horses are required to show both acceleration and stamina to win.

Famous Winners:

The Manikato Stakes has a history of producing legendary winners, with many horses who have triumphed in the race going on to become icons of Australian racing.

• Manikato himself is one of the most famous names associated with the race. Although he never competed in the race under its current name, he was the inspiration for renaming it in his honor. With 29 wins from 47 starts, including five victories in the William Reid Stakes, Manikato is widely considered one of Australia’s all-time great sprinters.
• Miss Andretti, a superstar sprinter in the mid-2000s, captured the Manikato Stakes in 2006. Her victory cemented her reputation as one of the fastest mares in the world, having also won the King’s Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot earlier that year.
• Hay List took the 2010 edition in a dominant display, showcasing the power and speed that made him one of the best sprinters of his era. Hay List is perhaps best remembered for his rivalry with the undefeated champion Black Caviar, but his Manikato Stakes win demonstrated that he was a world-class sprinter in his own right.
• Chautauqua, also known as “The Grey Flash,” won the race in 2015, producing one of his trademark finishes from the back of the field to storm home and win by a length. Chautauqua became famous for his incredible closing speed, making him a fan favorite around the world.

Other notable winners include Sunline, Buffering, Lankan Rupee, and Redzel, each of whom has left a significant mark on the Australian sprinting scene.

2024 Manikato Stakes: Key Contenders:

As we look forward to the 2024 edition of the Manikato Stakes, a new crop of sprinters is preparing to stake their claim for Group 1 glory. Some key contenders expected to make headlines include:

• I Wish I Win: Coming off a stellar campaign, I Wish I Win has developed into one of Australia’s top sprinters. After placing well in several Group 1 races earlier this year, this talented runner will be aiming for his first Manikato Stakes victory and is likely to start as one of the favorites.
• Chain of Lightning: Another strong contender, Chain of Lightning, has consistently proven her talent over the shorter distances. Her sharp turn of foot and ability to handle the pressure of top-level races make her a strong challenger in this year’s field.
• Imperatriz: Having made her mark on the Australian racing scene with a string of impressive performances, Imperatriz will be one to watch. With a versatile racing style and the ability to adapt to different track conditions, she is expected to be a key player in the Manikato Stakes.
• Private Eye: A seasoned Group 1 competitor, Private Eye has built a reputation for his ability to compete at the highest level over distances ranging from 1200 to 1400 meters. With his experience and strong sprinting credentials, he could easily figure in the finish of this year’s race.
• Coolangatta: This young, emerging sprinter has made waves with her ability to perform on the big stage. With a promising future ahead, Coolangatta could be a surprise contender in the 2024 Manikato Stakes, particularly if she continues to improve.

Race Day Insights

For punters and fans, the Manikato Stakes is more than just a sprint—it’s an opportunity to witness elite athleticism and finely-tuned horsemanship. When analyzing the race, key factors to consider include:

• Track Position: With Moonee Valley’s tight turns, horses that can find a forward position early without expending too much energy often have an advantage. Jockeys with experience at the track, like Craig Williams or Jamie Kah, may be worth paying close attention to.
• Recent Form: Sprinters coming into the race off strong performances in lead-up races like the Moir Stakes or Schillaci Stakes often have an edge, as they’ve proven they are peaking at the right time.
• Track Conditions: Moonee Valley’s unique surface and the possibility of rain can affect the outcome. Some horses thrive on softer ground, while others are specialists on firm tracks, so knowing the conditions will play a critical role in determining who will perform best on the night.

Conclusion

The Manikato Stakes is more than just a horse race—it’s a celebration of speed, strategy, and the very best that Australian racing has to offer. With its thrilling history, electric night-time atmosphere, and a roll call of legendary winners, the race continues to capture the imagination of racing fans both locally and globally.

As the 2024 edition approaches, excitement builds for what promises to be yet another unforgettable night at Moonee Valley

Race Horse Shares Available:

Here are just some of the exciting Horse Syndications available with Kurrinda Bloodstock that set them apart from the list of horse racing syndicates available, to view them all visit http://www.kbloodstock.com.au

Cosmic Force X Miss Marilyn Colt:

Cosmic Force X Miss Marilyn Colt

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nBt772ReHjw

This Colt is by Newgate Farm’s exciting first season sire Cosmic Force, already doing a great job with only a handful of runners so far.

Producing 3 individual Stakes horses including the Blue Diamond Prelude Group 3 runner up Stay Focused and Inglis Nursery runner up Beer Baron.

His dam Miss Marilyn a winner at 1100m is a half sister to the illustrious Group 1 The Galaxy sprint winning earner of over $1.7 million Mistegic and Stakes winner of no less than 11 individual wins Rightson.

This Colt was a real standout for us at the sale from the moment we laid eyes on him we knew we were bringing him home.

He ticked a lot of boxes for us he moved effortlessly, is so well balanced and oozed class. Every time we saw him he just came out and paraded like the utmost professional.

He was presented at the Inglis Classic sale and comes off the Boutique nursery Riverstone Lodge an upbringing that will see him have every chance for success on the track.

He will be trained by Nathan Doyle in Newcastle where he will get every chance.

This Colt is eligible for the lucrative Inglis race series and BOBS bonus scheme.

To view all available horse racing syndcates visit http://www.kbloodstock.com.au

Star Turn X Bleue Pepite Colt:

Star turn X Bleue Pepite

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ui4W3O6Ua8&t=10s

This colt is by the Group 1 producing sire Star Turn and out of the Fastnet Rock mare Bleue Pepite who has already produced top quality racehorses including the $400k earner and 6 time winner Ruban Bleu as well as 5 time winner La Defense.

Bleue Pepite is a half sister to the Group 3 winning mare Think Bleue.

This Colt is extremely well balanced and a showed a fantastic willing workmanlike attitude. He was well put together with plenty of scope.

He will be trained by leading Queensland trainer Stuart Kendrick out of his state of the art Sunshine Coast facilities. He is eligible for the Magic Millions race series as well as both the lucrative BOBS and QTIS bonus schemes.

Trusted syndicators like Kurrinda Bloodstock, with their industry expertise and proven track record, make this dream achievable for aspiring owners by offering affordable ownership opportunities and a rewarding racehorse ownership experience.

To check out all of Kurrinda Bloodstock’s exciting ownership opportunities visit https://kbloodstock.com.au

Kurrinda Bloodstock Syndications stands out as a trusted and proven syndicator in the world of Australian horse racing.

With a reputation built on integrity, transparency, and success, Kurrinda Bloodstock offers everyday racing enthusiasts the opportunity to own a share in a racehorse and be part of something extraordinary.

What makes Kurrinda unique is not just their ability to source quality horses, but their commitment to making the ownership experience enjoyable and rewarding for all their clients.

The team at Kurrinda Bloodstock understands that owning a racehorse is not just about financial investment; it’s about the emotional journey, the thrill of competition, and the bonds formed along the way.

They take the time to educate their owners, ensuring that everyone involved understands the process, the risks, and the potential rewards.

This approach has helped Kurrinda build a loyal and enthusiastic community of owners who share in the highs and lows of the sport

To view our current available Racehorse Syndicates click here:

PO Box 3105
Thornton NSW 2322
1300 587 746
office@kbloodstock.com.au